Malaysia PM rejects early election calls, urges focus on economy

Malaysian Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has dismissed calls for an early general election, emphasizing the need for his administration to complete its full term to ensure economic growth and political stability. He urged all parties to allow the government the space to govern, stating that the public desires a focus on national administration over continuous politicking.

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Give us time based on the mandate given until the election arrives. After that, we can compete fiercely. I have no problem with that.

"Give us time based on the mandate given until the election arrives. After that, we can compete fiercely. I have no problem with that," Anwar said during a question-and-answer session in the Dewan Rakyat. He was responding to a question about whether a snap election should be considered amid regional geopolitical tensions and domestic political developments.

The current parliamentary term can extend until February 2028 unless dissolved earlier. However, speculation about an early 16th General Election (PRU16) has been fueled by political tensions within the unity government. These speculations intensified after Barisan Nasional, a key partner in Anwar's coalition, achieved a significant victory in the Johor state elections, winning 48 out of 56 seats.

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About listening to the voice of the people, we listen to the voice of the people. I believe the people also want stability. The people also want the economy to grow.

Anwar reiterated that the public prioritizes political stability and economic strengthening. He believes political competition is appropriate only during election periods, not continuously, as it distracts from governance. "About listening to the voice of the people, we listen to the voice of the people. I believe the people also want stability. The people also want the economy to grow," he added.

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People also want us not to be politicking all the time. So give it time, we have the mandate, when the election comes, we will fight again.

Separately, Anwar confirmed that the proposed abolition of National Higher Education Fund Corporation (PTPTN) loans will be discussed with the Ministry of Higher Education. He stated that any decisions concerning PTPTN require consultation with the responsible minister. This issue was also raised during the Johor state elections, with the Menteri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi addressing the PTPTN loan matter.

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So, we discuss properly and the PTPTN issue, we discuss with the Minister of Higher Education.